Hi to the poster re: moving to CA with ferrets----
 
Yes, unfortunately ferrets are still illegal in California, despite all of
the hard work that we (current CA residents with ferrets) have continually
done re: legalizing efforts.  Despite this crazy law, ferret food/toys/etc.
are readily and easily available at local pet stores, and there are
reputable vets who treat ferrets throughout the state.  There are also ways
to bring ferrets with you across the agricultural border stations.  This
said, please think carefully about your choice to bring your 3 boys with
you.  They will have to be kept indoors, away from the public's eye at all
times.  You will have to be fearful when driving them to the vet--in case
something happens and you get caught with them (they will be confiscated
if caught, and either destroyed or shipped out of state).  You will make
posts to ferret mailing lists anonymously.  Those of us who choose to have
ferrets in California have to be very mindful and carefully of our decision
to do so!
 
In thinking about this big decision, I would encourage you to check out
some website links of CA ferret organizations.  A good place to start for
N. CA is: http://www.ferretnews.org
and for S. CA is:
http://www.ferretsanon.com.
These sites are very informative about the relevant issues in CA, and will
aid you in the decision you have at hand.
 
While you are considering the pros and cons of bringing your boys with you
to CA, I would also encourage you to think more carefully about how you
would bring them here if you choose to do so.  Shipping them is not a
viable option...since they are illegal in CA, they would be confiscated--
and regardless, shipping them seems to be a very hazardous and deadly way
to transfer a pet in general.  We drove with 2 girls when we moved to CA,
and through very carefully research (and wonderful advice through this
mailing list) we brought them here with us safe and sound (unfortunately,
they have since passed through the rainbow bridge).
 
I urge you to think very carefully about your decision.  Please utilize the
wonderful resources on this mailing list and through the website links in
order to gain all the information you need.
 
Jodi (and Xena and Athena--our 2 CA bred and raised girls!)
[Posted in FML issue 3234]